What is the intention behind wrongful appropriation?

Wrongful appropriation refers specifically to the unauthorized use or possession of someone else's property. The key aspect of this action is that it temporarily deprives the owner of their property without consent. This can occur, for example, when someone takes a car for a joyride without the owner's permission. The intention here is not to permanently take the property, as that would imply theft, but rather to use it for a period of time without the owner's knowledge or consent.

The understanding of wrongful appropriation hinges on the idea of temporary deprivation, distinguishing it from acts that aim for permanent loss or damage to property. This highlights the unauthorized nature of the action, showcasing that the appropriating person does not have the right to use the property, even if only for a short time.